| name | Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) |
| Classification | Dietary Supplement, Amino Acids |
| Pharmacokinetics | BCAAs are rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. They are primarily metabolized in muscle tissue. Individual absorption and metabolism rates can vary based on factors like individual gut health and nutritional status. |
| suggested dosage | | typical range mg per kg bodyweight | 0.5 - 2.0 g/kg per day | | notes | Dosage varies significantly depending on the specific BCAA product, desired outcome, and the individual. Consult with a healthcare professional or the product manufacturer for specific recommendations. | | typical product amount | 2-10 grams per serving taken one or more times daily | | specific recommendations | No standardized, universally accepted dosage guidelines exist for all possible health applications of BCAAs. Dose recommendations are based on clinical trial findings, though some findings need further validation. |
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| indications | | 1 | Muscle protein synthesis support during exercise and recovery | | 2 | Potential aid in reducing muscle fatigue during exercise | | 3 | May help reduce muscle soreness after exercise | | 4 | May improve strength in athletes | | 5 | Potential role in certain medical conditions requiring improved protein synthesis (e.g., some types of muscle wasting) | | 6 | Some evidence suggests potential benefit in promoting wound healing in certain contexts |
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| Safety in pregnancy | Limited data available regarding the use of BCAAs during pregnancy. While not likely to pose direct risks during pregnancy, it's best to avoid self-treating. Consult with a doctor before use during pregnancy. |
| Safety in breastfeeding | Limited data. As with pregnancy, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider. |
| side effects | | 1 | Generally well-tolerated, but potential side effects include abdominal discomfort (gas, bloating), diarrhea, headache, or dizziness | | 2 | Rare cases of nausea or vomiting | | 3 | Individuals with pre-existing liver or kidney conditions should exercise caution when using BCAAs. Consult a doctor before use. |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity or allergy to any of the BCAA components (leucine, isoleucine, valine) | | 2 | Severe liver or kidney disease (consult a doctor before use) | | 3 | Pregnancy and breastfeeding, unless supervised by a healthcare provider |
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| interactions | | 1 | May interact with certain medications, including drugs used to treat diabetes or high blood pressure (consult a doctor). | | 2 | Interaction with other supplements are possible. Consult a doctor before use if taking any supplements with BCAAs. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions should seek advice from a healthcare provider | | 2 | Do not exceed the recommended dosage. Using excessive doses might not improve any outcome and increase the risk of side effects. | | 3 | Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplementation regimen. | | 4 | Not a replacement for proper medical care. Should not be used for diagnosing, mitigating, or treating any disease, illness, or condition. |
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| additional information | | male patient specific | A 25-year-old male weighing 70kg is likely to have higher BCAA requirements during intense exercise, and doses for such contexts should be discussed with a physician. | | supplement quality | Look for high-quality, reputable brands of BCAA supplements, ensuring purity and quality of ingredients, as some products may contain fillers. Some BCAA supplements contain additional vitamins and minerals, in which case the suggested dosage may need to be adjusted, to avoid unwanted excess. | | individual response | Individual responses to BCAA supplements vary considerably. Some people may experience benefits, while others may not. Proper medical guidance helps to understand if such supplements will be appropriate for a particular condition. |
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| additional notes | Data about BCAAs are constantly evolving, so the current information should be reviewed periodically with a healthcare provider. |
